DE112006003781B4 - Ready-to-install damped hinge module - Google Patents

Abstract

Hinge module, comprising: a first part (12), a second part (14) which is rotatable relative to the first part (12) between a first position and a second position, the second part (14) at least partially inside of the first part (12) and a torsion spring (16) which is arranged inside the first part (12) and which biases the second part (14) relative to the first part (12) towards the first position, the Spring (16) is under tension when the second part (14) is in the first position relative to the first part (12), the first part (12) forming an outer housing which has an interior and an inner surface, the second part (14) forming an inner housing having an interior and an outer surface, the inner housing being at least partially received in the interior of the outer housing, the outer surface of the inner housing at least a portion of the r faces the inner surface of the outer housing and the torsion spring (16) is at least partially housed inside the inner housing, characterized in that the inner housing has an outer end portion outside the outer housing, the outer end portion of the inner housing having a hole or a bore, the outer housing having an end portion facing away from the outer end portion of the inner housing, the end portion of the outer housing having a hole or bore that mates with the bore of the outer end portion (636) of the inner housing, the hinge module further comprising: a pair of pins (120, 122; 320, 420) arranged to extend through the bore of the end portion of the outer casing and through the bore of the outer end portion of the inner casing, respectively, and a compression spring (118; 322, 422) interposed between the pair of pins (120,122; 320, 420) is arranged to bias each of the pins of this pair outward from the corresponding bore of the end portion of the outer case and the bore of the outer end portion of the inner case.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to hinge modules and, more specifically, to a damped hinge module which can be preassembled for insertion or insertion installation in a device or device.

Typically, cushioned hinges must be installed during the assembly of equipment or other objects within which the hinges are placed. That is, the hinges themselves must be assembled in addition to assembling the devices, which may add costly steps and time to assemble the devices. In addition, if the hinges are manufactured by someone or a unit that is not the manufacturer of the device, they must typically be transported to the final manufacturer of the device in a disassembled state and assembled or assembled by the final manufacturer during assembly of the devices will. Such a situation can lead to problems regarding the quality control of the hinges, since the hinges are assembled by a unit or someone other than the manufacturer of the hinge.

It would therefore be desirable to have a damped hinge module which can be preassembled to enable the hinge module to be inserted or inserted into a device in a relatively simple manner by the manufacturer of a device. In this way, the time and costs for assembling the devices can be reduced and the quality of the assembled hinge modules can be better controlled by the hinge manufacturer.

From the U.S. Patent Application No. 2005/0034269 A1 a damping device with the features of the preamble of claim 1 is known. The known device is provided for the damping of a door closer and comprises a locking mechanism in the open position of a door in order to facilitate assembly in order to be able to provide sufficient pretension for closing a door.

The elements connected by the hinge are specifically adapted to the hinge.

The present invention is therefore based on the object of providing a hinge module which can be used in a flexible manner on different components which are optionally provided in a slightly different manner on the parts to be connected by the hinge.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object on which the invention is based is achieved by a damped hinge module with the features of claim 1. The hinge module has on the one hand on the inner and on the outer housing two mutually aligned bores, in which ends of a torsion spring can be received, so that a rotation of the inner relative to the outer housing creates a bias of the torsion spring. In addition, a compression spring is provided, which prestresses two pins at its opposite ends, which can engage in corresponding bores in the parts to be connected to one another via the hinge module. The pins can be pressed together against the pretension of the compression spring and can therefore be used between components that have different distances from one another within certain areas.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE FIGURES

The following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, embodiments are shown in the drawings, which are preferred. However, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and components shown.

• 1 eine perspektivische Explosionsdarstellung eines Scharniermoduls gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform, die nicht alle Merkmale der vorliegenden Erfindung zeigt.
• 2 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht des Scharniermoduls nach 1 in einem zusammenmontierten Zustand.
• 3 eine perspektivische Querschnittsansicht des Scharniermoduls nach 2.
• 4 ist eine perspektivische Explosionsdarstellung eines Scharniermoduls einer zweiten Ausführungsform gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 5 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht des Scharniermoduls nach 4 in einem zusammenmontierten Zustand, und
• 6 ist eine Querschnittsansicht des Scharniermoduls nach 5.
• 7 - 13 sind Ansichten eines Scharniermoduls gemäß einer dritten Ausführungsform, welche nicht alle Merkmale des Anspruchs 1 zeigt.
• 14 - 24 sind Ansichten eines Scharniermoduls gemäß einer vierten bevorzugten Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 25 - 28 sind Ansichten eines Scharniermoduls gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform, die nicht alle Merkmale des Anspruchs 1 zeigt.

In the drawings

• 1 an exploded perspective view of a hinge module according to a first embodiment, which does not show all the features of the present invention.
• 2nd is a perspective view of the hinge module of FIG 1 in an assembled condition.
• 3rd a perspective cross-sectional view of the hinge module according to 2nd .
• 4th 10 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module of a second embodiment in accordance with the present invention.
• 5 is a perspective view of the hinge module of FIG 4th in an assembled condition, and
• 6 10 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge module of FIG 5 .
• 7 - 13 are views of a hinge module according to a third embodiment, which does not show all the features of claim 1.
• 14 - 24th are views of a hinge module according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.
• 25th - 28 are views of a hinge module according to another embodiment, which does not show all the features of claim 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and without limitation. The words "right", "left", "upper" and "lower" indicate directions in the figures to which reference is made. The terms include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives of these, and words of similar meaning.

Reference will now be made in detail to the figures, with the same reference numbers denoting the same elements throughout. In the 1 - 3rd A first embodiment of an insertable, damped hinge module is shown, which is generally designated 10. According to the 1 - 3rd shows the hinge module 10th preferably approximately tubular outer and inner housings 12 , 14 on. The inner case 14 preferably has such a dimension that it is full in the outer casing 12 fits. The outer case 12 has an open end 12b which gives access to an inner surface 12a of the outer casing 12 granted. Similarly, the inner case 14 an open end 14c to have access to an interior 14f of the inner case 14 to grant. Preferably there is a slot 14b in one end of the inner case 14 arranged or provided which to the open end 14c is opposite. The inner case 14 still has an outer surface 14a on. According to the 1 - 3rd is for assembling the hinge module 10th a torsion spring 16 , which is appropriately dimensioned so that it is in the open end 14c of the inner case 14 fits, preferably in the inner housing 14 arranged. An approximately hook-shaped first end 16a the torsion spring 16 fits in the slot 14b of the inner case 14 to the inner case 14 for a rotation with the first end 16a the torsion spring 16 to couple or connect. The outer case 12 is then over or on the inner case 14 and the torsion spring 16 arranged so that a second end 16b leading to the first end 16a the torsion spring 16 opposite, with a hole or a hole 12e in the outer casing 12 engages around the outer casing 12 for a rotation with the second end 16b the torsion spring 16 connect to. The outer case 12 preferably snaps onto the inner housing 14 one to the hinge module 10th to hold together as a single integral unit. This is preferably accomplished by providing a slot 13 immediately within the open end 12b on the outer case 12 which has a raised rib 14e or another similar structure at one end of the inner housing 14 in a snap-in manner, in order to prevent a linear relative movement, but to allow a relative rotary movement. Although this is preferred, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the outer and inner housings 12 , 14 can also be connected to one another in other suitable ways.

Specifically according to 1 has the slot 13 preferably a first section 13a which extends approximately in the circumferential direction around at least part of the outer housing 12 extends around, and a second section 13b extending approximately axially from one end of the first section 13a along the outer case 12 some distance away from the open end 12b extends. This configuration of the slot 13 allows the inner case 14 regarding the outer casing 12 can rotate by a certain amount if the protruding rib 14e within the first section 13a of the slot 13 running. The slot 13 still allows limited axial movement of the inner housing 14 regarding the outer casing 12 if the protruding rib 14e with the second section 13b of the slot 13 is aligned. With this orientation, the inner housing 14 a little further into the outer case 12 to be pushed in, causing the torsion spring 16 slightly compressed and the total length of the hinge module 10th is shortened while on each of the ends of the hinge module 10th a force is exerted.

In addition, a damping grease (not shown) is preferably placed between the outer surface 14a of the inner case 14 and the inner surface 12 of the outer casing 12 brought in. The outer and inner casings 12 , 14 each have engagement surfaces 12d , 14d to allow the hinge module 10th can engage with a cover (not shown) and a base part (not shown) of an object (not shown) on which the hinge module 10th can be used.

The hinge module 10th is preferably preassembled to form a closed unit as shown in 2nd is illustrated to the need to assemble the hinge module 10th during the assembly of the object, in which is the hinge module 10th to be installed to avoid. In this way, the hinge module 10th simply “inserted” or “inserted” into an object in order to facilitate the assembly of the object or object. That means it can be on either end of the hinge module 10th a force is applied to the hinge module 10th easily shortened as described above, providing enough clearance to allow the hinge module 10th can be inserted into a fastening point or receptacle (not shown) of the object. When it is "inserted", the torsion spring stretches 16 in the axial direction to their uncompressed length around the hinge module 10th to bring it back to its normal length and the engaging surfaces 12d , 14d of the in or inner housing 12 respectively. 14 to press into engagement with the corresponding engagement surfaces of the lid and the base part. In this way, the hinge module 10th are arranged in a relatively simple manner between the base part and the cover and are held in or on the object during the assembly of the object or object. The engagement surfaces 12d of the outer casing 12 bring the outer casing 12 either engaged with the lid or the base and rotatably connect to it. The engagement surfaces 14d of the inner case 14 bring the inner case 14 engages with the other part of the cover and the base part of the object and connect them for rotation. Although this method of installation and pivot connection to the object is preferred, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the hinge module 10th could also be installed in other ways, such as. B. by sliding the hinge module 10th into corresponding slots within the article, or by using a different method for rotatably connecting the article to the hinge module, as long as the alternative method of rotating connection allows the hinge module 10th works in the manner described here.

Preferably the outer and inner housings 12 , 14 made of a polymeric material and the torsion spring 16 is made of a metallic material. In particular, it is preferred if the outer and inner housings 12 , 14 are injection molded from a plastic material, such as. B. from a PC / ABS mixture, even if many other synthetic resins could be used instead. Although preferred, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the outer and inner housings 12 , 14 and the torsion spring 16 formed from other suitable materials using other manufacturing processes, provided the hinge module 10th is still able to function as described here.

According to the 4th - 6 is a damped hinge module 110 according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention essentially the hinge module 10th similar to the first embodiment described above. The hinge module 110 has an outer housing 112 and an inner housing disposed therein 114 on. The outer and inner casings 112 , 114 are rotatable via a torsion spring 116 connected with each other.

According to 4th has the outer case 112 an approximately tubular shape with an inner surface 112 which have an open end 112b is accessible. Near the open end 112 there is a slot extending approximately in the circumferential direction 112c which is at least partially around the outer casing 112 extends around. The outer case 112 has an outer end 112f , which is preferably the open end 112b is arranged opposite. The outer case 112 further includes an engagement surface 112d , which is preferably a substantially flat portion that extends along one side of the outer housing 112 extends.

Furthermore, according to 4th the inner case 114 also roughly a tubular shape with an open end 114c and an opposite outer end 114f . The inner case 114 has an outer surface 114a . Preferably located near the outer end 114f a circulating channel 114b in the inner case 114 . An engaging surface 114d , preferably in the form of an approximately radially extending lever, is preferably at the outer end 114f of the inner case 114 arranged.

According to the 4th and 6 has the torsion spring 116 first and second ends 116a , 116b . Each of the first and second ends 116a , 116b the torsion spring 116 preferably extends in the axial direction from a wound or coil-shaped section 116c the torsion spring 116 . Preferably the first end occurs 116 the torsion spring 116 with a hole (not shown) near the outer end 114f of the inner case 114 engaged, and the second end 116b the torsion spring 116 kicks with a hole 112e that in the outer end 112f of the outer casing 112 is arranged to engage when the hinge module 110 is assembled as described below.

Furthermore, according to the 4th - 6 the hinge module 110 first and second pens 120 , 122 on. Each of the first and second pens 120 , 122 has an inner end 120a , 122a with a first diameter and an outer end 120b , 122b with a second diameter that is opposite to that at the inner end 120a , 122a is reduced. The outer ends 120b , 122b of the first and second pens 120 , 122 are preferably dimensioned so that they slide into engagement with openings 114g , 112g the inner or outer housing 114 respectively. 112 stand. The diameter of the inner ends 120a , 122a are preferably larger than the diameter of the openings 114g , 112g to prevent the first and second pins 120 , 122 completely through the openings 114g , 112g slide through. When assembled, the hinge module has 110 still a compression spring 118 on that between the inner ends 120a , 122a of the first and second pins 120, 122 is arranged around the first and second pins 120 , 122 outwards towards the outer ends 114f , 112f the inner or outer housing 112 respectively. 114 preload. Preferably the diameters of the inner ends 120a , 122a and a diameter of the compression spring 118 expediently dimensioned such that they are in a hollow inner section of the wound or coil-shaped section 116c the torsion spring 116 fit in if the hinge module 110 is assembled or assembled.

The hinge module 110 still has a seal 124 on, preferably in the form of an elastomeric O-ring in the channel 114b of the inner case 114 is arranged to make a sealing engagement between the outer surface 114a of the inner case 114 and the inner surface of the outer case 112 to be provided when the hinge module 110 is assembled. It is also included or included that the seal 124 a certain amount of rotational damping of the assembled hinge module 110 provides.

According to the 4th - 6 is used to assemble the hinge module 110 the torsion spring 116 in the inner case 114 used so that the first end 116a the torsion spring 116 in engagement with the hole in the inner housing 114 stands. The first pen 120 is then through the wound or coil-shaped section 116c the torsion spring 116 inside the inner case 114 used so that the outer end 120b through the opening 114g in the outer end 114f of the inner case 114 extends, with the inner end 120a inside the inner case 114 and the wound section 116c the torsion spring 116 remains so the inner end 120a not in the opening 114g is arranged. The compression spring 118 is in the wrapped section 116c the torsion spring 116 in the inner case 114 used so they are at the inner end 120a of the pen 120 is present. The seal 124 is in the channel 114b around the inner case 114 arranged around. The second pen 122 is in the outer casing 112 used so that the outer end 122b through the opening 112g in the outer end 112f of the outer casing 112 extends and the inner end 122a in the outer casing 112 remains. The outer case 112 is then preferably around the inner housing 114 arranged around so that most of the inner case 114 inside the outer casing 112 lies. In doing so, the inner end becomes 122a of the second pin 122 in the wrapped section 116c the torsion spring 116 used to on the compression spring 118 and the second end 116b the torsion spring 116 engages the hole 112e in the outer casing 112 . In this way, the outer casing 112 via the torsion spring 116 rotatable with the inner housing 114 connected and the first and second pins 120 , 122 are outward towards the outer ends 114f respectively. 112 through the compression spring arranged between them 118 biased.

A damping grease (not shown) is preferably between the outer surface 114a of the inner case 114 and the inner surface 112a of the outer casing 112 arranged and is through the seal 124 held in between. Even if it is preferred that the hinge module 110 an O-ring seal 124 , it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the hinge module 110 includes a seal that is not an elastomeric O-ring, such as. B. a circumferential rib or a projection which is integral with one of the inner and outer housings 114 , 112 , a sealing tape, or any other substance that wraps around the inner case 114 wrapped around or otherwise attached to it, or any other suitable sealing means, or that the seal is eliminated altogether by relying on the viscosity of the damping grease so that the damping grease is within the hinge module 110 is held.

A pin is preferably inserted through the slot 112c in the outer casing 112 inserted so that it is in a corresponding hole (not shown) in the inner housing 114 engages. This way the outer casing 112 on the inner case 114 held. The pen runs inside the slot 112c during the rotation of the inner casing 114 regarding the outer casing 112 , the ends of the slot 112c the rotation limits of the hinge module 110 define. Although it is preferred that the pin be used for the inner and outer housings 114 , 112 to interconnect, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that any other suitable structure is used, such as. B. a protruding rib, the one with the inner case 114 is in one piece, as described above with reference to the first embodiment, but is not limited to this, and provided that the hinge module 110 is still able to function as described here.

The hinge module 110 is preferably assembled beforehand to form a self-contained unit, as in 5 is shown to avoid the need for the hinge module 110 during the assembly of the device or object on which the hinge module 110 to be installed. In this way, the hinge module 110 can simply be "inserted" into a device, making assembly of the device or object easier. This is accomplished by applying a force to the outer ends 120b , 122b of the first and second pens 120 , 122 that is directed inward to the compression spring 118 between the first and second pin 120 , 122 squeeze and the outer ends 120b , 122b in the inner and outer housing 114 respectively. 112 push in. By doing this, there will be enough play between the hinge module 110 and the device created to allow the hinge module 110 is "used" at an assembly location or mounting bracket (not shown) of the device. As soon as it is inserted, the compression spring expands 118 in the axial direction to their normal, uncompressed length, thus pushing the outer ends 120b , 122b of the first and second pens 120 , 122 out into corresponding holes (not shown) around the hinge module 110 to keep in the device. The engagement surfaces are in the installed state 112d , 114d of the hinge module 110 on corresponding engagement surfaces (not shown) of a cover (not shown) and a base part (not shown) of the device or object. In this way, the engaging surface brings 112 of the outer casing 112 the outer case 112 engages with either the lid or the base and rotatably connects them for rotation and the engaging surface 114d of the inner case 114 brings the inner case 114 engages with the other of the parts cover or base part of the device or object and connects them for rotation. Even if this method of mounting in the device and the rotary connection with the device is preferred, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the hinge module 110 otherwise connected or installed for rotation with the device, provided the hinge module 110 is still able to function as described here.

Preferably the outer and inner housings 112 , 114 made of a polymeric material and the first and second pins 120 , 122 who have favourited Torsion Spring 116 and the compression spring 118 are made of a metallic material. In particular, it is preferred if the outer and inner housings 112 , 114 are injection molded from a plastic material, such as. B. from a PC / ABS mixture, even if many other synthetic resins could be used instead. In addition, although it is preferred that the first and second pins 120 , 122 are made of a metallic material, also include that the first and second pins 120 , 122 are made of a polymeric material provided the first and second pins 120 , 122 are still able to function as described here. Although this is preferred, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the outer and inner housings 112 , 114 , the first and second pens 120 , 122 who have favourited Torsion Spring 116 and the compression spring 118 are made from other suitable materials using other manufacturing processes, provided the hinge module 110 is still able to function as described here.

The hinge module is in use 10th , 110 able to be installed in an item relatively simply by "inserting" it as described above to facilitate assembly of the item. When installed, the assembled hinge module allows 10th ( 1-3 ), 110 ( 4-6 ) a dampened rotation of the lid with respect to the base part of an object. The torsion spring 16 , 116 tensions the inner case 14 , 114 in a direction of an arrow A with respect to the outer case 12 , 112 in front. The damping grease between the outer surface 14a , 114a of the inner case 14 , 114 and the inner surface 12a , 112a of the outer casing 12 , 112 dampens the rotation of the hinge module 10th , 110 to provide a rotational movement at approximately constant speed.

Preferably the hinge module 10th , 110 arranged in the object so that the opening direction of the object coincides with arrow A (see 1 for the hinge module 10th and 4th for the hinge module 110 ) to bias the object towards the open position. A closure (not shown) is placed between the lid and the base of the article to hold the article in the closed position. In this way, unlocking the lock allows the hinge module 10th , 110 a rotation of the lid in the open position delivers at approximately constant speed. The hinge module 10th , 110 is preferably used for cosmetic cases or containers, but can also be used for containers and Hinged lid type devices, e.g. B. for glasses cases and for mobile phones and for any other device or other object in which a damped rotary motion is desired.

According to the 7-13 A third embodiment of an insertable, damped hinge module is shown, which is generally designated 210. The hinge module 210 preferably includes approximately tubular outer and inner housings 212 , 214 . The inner case 214 is preferably dimensioned so that it is full in the outer housing 212 fits. The outer case 212 has an open end 212b which has access to an inner surface 212a of the outer casing 212 allowed. Similarly, the inner case 214 an open end 214c to access an interior 214f of the inner case 214 to enable. Preferably there is a hole or a bore 214b arranged in one end, which is the open end 214c of the inner case 214 is opposite. The hole 214b is eccentric, ie the hole 214b is with respect to the longitudinal central axis of the interior 214f of the inner case 214 moved out of the center. The inner case 214 also includes an outer surface 214a .

According to the 7-13 is for assembling the hinge module 210 a torsion spring 216 that is sized appropriately so that it fits into the open end 214c of the inner case 214 fits, preferably at least partially within the inner housing 214 arranged. An essentially axial first projection 216a is at a first end 216d the torsion spring 216 provided which in the hole 214b of the inner case 214 fits to the inner case 214 for a rotary motion with the first end 216d the torsion spring 216 to couple or connect. The outer case 212 is then over or on the inner case 214 and the torsion spring 216 arranged so that a second axial projection 216b that at a second end 216e which is the first end 216d the torsion spring 216 opposite, with a hole 212e in the outer casing 212 engages around the outer casing 212 for a rotation with the second end 216e the torsion spring 216 connect to. The inner case 214 preferably snaps into the outer housing 212 one to the hinge module 210 to hold together as a single integral unit. This is preferably accomplished by providing two arcuate slots 211 , 213 in the bottom of the interior 212h which is the open end 212b of the outer casing 212 is opposite, and which each the axially projecting locking leg 215 , 217 snap or snap to prevent the inner housing 214 and the outer case 212 are pulled apart while at the same time allowing the two to be rotated relative to each other.

In particular according to the 10th to 12 is the length of the slots 211 , 213 considerably larger than the width of the locking leg 215 , 217 in the circumferential direction of the open end 212b of the outer casing 212 . This configuration enables the inner housing 214 themselves regarding the outer casing 212 rotates by a certain amount, the locking leg 215 , 217 each in the slots 211 , 213 to run.

In addition, a damping grease (not shown) is preferably between the outer surface 214a of the inner case 214 and the inner surface 212a of the outer casing 212 applied and provided. The outer and inner casings 212 , 214 each have mating surfaces to allow the hinge module 210 engages with a cover (not shown) and a base part (not shown) of an object (not shown), or on which the hinge module 210 should be used.

The hinge module 210 is preferably pre-assembled to form a self-contained unit, as in 7 is shown to avoid the need for the hinge module 210 during assembly of the object on which the hinge module 210 to be installed to build together. In this way, the hinge module 210 can be “used” on an object in a simple manner, which facilitates the assembly of the object. In the example shown, the engaging surfaces of the outer housing 212 a flange 212d near the open end 212b of the outer casing 212 and a pair of cylindrical, axial protrusions 226 , 228 on that parallel from the flange 212 on each side of the open end 212b of the outer casing 212 protrude. The engagement surfaces 212d , 226 and 228 of the outer casing 212 bring the outer casing 212 either engaged with the lid or with the base and connect them together for rotation. In the example shown, the inner housing comprises 214 an axial projection 214d which is from the outer end 230 of the inner case 214 protrudes outwards and with a slit 232 is provided. The slot 232 forms the engagement surface of the inner housing 214 . The engagement surfaces 232 of the inner case 214 bring the inner case 214 engages with the other part of the lid or base part of the object and connects them together for rotation.

The inner case 214 is relative to the outer case 212 between a first Position and a second position rotatable. The torsion spring 216 biases the inner case toward the first position and is biased so that it is the inner case 214 holds in the first position at least with a certain force. If the inner case 214 is turned towards the second position, the torsion spring 216 tightened even more, providing an increasing preload that tends to hold the inner case 214 to move back to the first position. Rotation of the inner housing relative to the outer housing is stopped once the inner housing is in the second position. If the inner case 214 then released, brings the biasing force to the torsion spring 216 the inner case 214 back to its first position, the damping grease ensuring that the rotational movement of the inner housing 214 towards the first position due to the resilient protrusions taking place smoothly and at a controlled speed of a desirable range.

As an example of using the hinge module 210 can the outer casing 212 be connected to the base part, which has already been mentioned, so that the projection 214d is in alignment with an opening in the base part, and so that the first position of the inner housing 214 corresponds to the open position of the lid. The lid could then be provided with a right-angled rod which protrudes from the lid and which is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the lid. The right-angled rod, which protrudes from the lid, can then enter the slot 232 are used with the lid in the open position to provide a hinge connection between the lid and the base. Because of the spring preload 216 the lid is held in the open position at least with a certain force. The cover must be against the spring preload caused by the torsion spring 216 is provided to be moved to the closed position, causing in the torsion spring 216 Energy is stored. The lid can be held in the closed position by a separate lock (not shown). When the lock is opened, the cover moves under the pretension of the torsion spring 216 automatically in the open position, but in a controlled and gentle manner due to the damping effect of the damping grease.

Preferably the outer and inner housings 212 , 214 made of a polymeric material and the torsion spring 216 is made of a metallic material. In particular, it is preferred if the outer and inner housings 212 , 214 made of a plastic material, such as. B. are injection molded from a PC / ABS mixture, although many other synthetic resins could be used instead. Although this is preferred, the outer and inner housings could 212 , 214 as well as the torsion spring 216 can also be made from other suitable materials using other suitable manufacturing processes.

According to the 14-24 you can use a damped hinge module 510 according to a fourth preferred embodiment with the features of the present invention. The hinge module 510 is made up of two separate hinge modules 310 and 410 manufactured, which are substantially identical and are arranged so that their end faces are aligned with each other, as will be explained below. The hinge module 310 includes a first outer housing 312 and a first outer wave 314 that are in a substantial portion of the first outer case 312 is arranged. The first outer case 312 and the first outer wave 314 are by a first torsion spring 316 rotatably connected.

The first outer case 312 is essentially tubular and has a hole through a wall 312h into a section 311 for a torsion spring and a sleeve section 313 is divided. The section 313 has an interior 312i that has an inner surface 312a and through an opening 312b which of the wall 312h opposite, is accessible. The section 311 has an interior 312j which has an inner surface 312k and through an opening 334 accessible which is the wall 312h opposite. The wall 312h has a central hole 330 which is through the wall 312a extends through, as well as a slot 332 on one side of the central hole 330 . An arm 312d stands from the outer surface of the first outer housing 312 near the opening 312b forth and the arm 312d extends along a plane that is approximately transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the first outer housing 312 runs.

The outer wave 314 has a tubular sleeve section 336 with hollow bore and solid shaft section 338 with a slit 340 at the end of the solid shaft section which is furthest from the sleeve section. The tubular sleeve section 336 has a larger outer diameter than the solid shaft section 338 . The massive shaft section 338 fits through the opening 330 in the wall 312h and extends partially out of the opening 334 out. The sleeve section of the outer shaft or the outer shaft 314 has an outer surface 314a .

The torsion spring 316 has an axially extending portion 316a at one end and a radially extending portion 316b at the other end. The axially extending one section 316a occurs with the slot 332 engaged and the radially extending portion 316b stands with the slot 340 engaged when the hinge module 510 is assembled. The twists of the torsion spring 316 encompass the shaft portion 338 the outer wave 314 and are in the section 311 added. An arm 314b stands from the outer end of the first outer shaft 314 which of the opening 312 is close and the arm 314d extends along a plane that is approximately transverse to the longitudinal central axis of the first outer shaft 314 runs.

The hinge module 310 has a first pin 320 on, at least partially in the bore of the sleeve section 336 is included. A compression spring 322 is in the bore of the sleeve section 336 picked up and tensioned the pen 320 outward from the sleeve portion 336 the outer wave 314 in front. The disc 342 is equipped with parallel slots, which the forks or pins at the end of the shaft section 338 record that through the slot 314 be defined or formed. The disc 342 covers the opening 334 from.

The hinge module 410 has a second outer housing 412 and a second outer shaft 414 on that to a considerable extent in the second outer housing 412 is included. The second outer case 412 and the second outer wave 414 are by a second torsion spring 416 rotatably connected.

The second outer case 412 is roughly tubular and has a hole through a wall 412h into a torsion spring section 411 and a sleeve section section 413 is divided. The section 413 has an interior with an inner surface 412a and is through an opening 412b which of the wall 412h opposite, accessible. The section 411 has an interior 412j with an inner surface 412k and is through an opening 434 accessible which of the wall 412h is opposite. The wall 412h has a central hole 430 flowing through the wall 412h extends, as well as a slot 432 on one side of the central hole 430 . An arm 412 stands from the outer surface of the second outer housing 412 close in the opening 412b forth and the arm 412d extends along a plane that is approximately transverse to the longitudinal central axis of the second outer housing 412 runs.

The outer wave 414 has a tubular sleeve section 436 with a hollow bore and a solid shaft section 438 with a slit 440 at the end of the solid shaft section that is farthest from the sleeve section. The tubular sleeve section 436 has a larger outer diameter than the solid shaft section 438 . The massive shaft section 438 fits through the opening 430 in the wall 412h and extends partially out of the opening 434 out. The sleeve section of the outer shaft 414 has an outer surface 414a .

The torsion spring 416 has an axially extending portion 416a at one end and a radially extending portion 416b at the other end. The axially extending section 416a stands with the slot 432 engaged and the radially extending projection 416b stands with the slot 440 engaged when the hinge module 510 is assembled. The twists of the torsion spring 416 surround the shaft section 438 the outer wave 414 and are in the section 411 added. An arm 414d stands from the outer end of the second outer shaft 414 before which of the opening 412b is closest and the arm 414d extends along a plane that is approximately transverse to the longitudinal central axis of the second outer shaft 414 runs.

The hinge module 410 has a second pin 420 on, at least partially in the bore of the sleeve section 436 is included. A compression spring 422 is in the bore of the sleeve section 436 picked up and tensioned the pen 420 from the sleeve section 436 the outer wave 414 outwards. The disc 442 is provided with parallel slots that the tenons at the end of the shaft section 438 picks up which one through the slot 440 be defined or formed. The disc 442 covers the opening 434 from.

The hinge modules 310 and 410 are arranged with their end faces towards each other, the openings of the torsion spring sections 311 and 411 are facing each other and with a spacer 511 between the panes 342 and 442 . The spacer bush 511 is hollow to provide clearance for the tenons at the ends of the shaft sections 338 and 438 to offer.

As an example of using the hinge module 510 the shafts or shafts 320 and 420 pressed inward so that the hinge module 510 can be arranged between openings in the base part. The shafts or shafts 320 , 420 spring outward to engage the holes in the base and the module 510 to secure or attach to the base part. Before this step, the arms 314d , 414d relative to the poor 312d , 412d rotated to move the springs 316 and 416 harness when arms 314d , 414d and the arms 312d , 412d are in relative positions which correspond to the open position of the lid. If the preloaded module 510 attached to the base part, the arms 314d , 414d fixed in recordings that are provided for them in the base part. The poor 312d , 412d are attached to the lid with the lid in the open position so that when the lid is moved to the closed position the springs 316 and 416 be wound even tighter to store energy. This ensures a hinge connection between the cover and the base part. Due to the preload of the springs 316 , 416 the lid is held in the open position with at least a certain force. The cover must be against the spring preload, which is due to the torsion springs 316 , 416 is provided, are moved into the closed position and thus stores energy in the torsion springs. The lid could be held in the closed position by a separate lock (not shown). When the lock is opened, the lid moves automatically under the pre-tension of the torsion springs 316 , 416 in the open position, but in a controlled and gentle manner due to the damping effect of the damping grease that is between the outer surfaces of the sleeve portions of the outer shafts 314 , 414 and the inner surfaces of the sections 313 , 413 the outer casing 312 , 412 is provided.

According to the 25-28 you can use a damped hinge module 610 recognize according to a further embodiment. The hinge module 620 has an outer casing 612 and an inner case 614 that to a large extent in the outer casing 612 is arranged. The outer case 612 and the inner case 614 are about a torsion spring 616 rotatably connected.

The outer case 612 is roughly tubular and has an interior with an inner surface 612a and is accessible through an opening 612b at one end of the outer case 612 . The end of the outer casing, which is the opening 612b opposite is with a wall 612h Mistake. The wall 612h has a central hole 630 which is through the wall 612h extends through the eccentric bore 632 on one side of the central hole 630 . The outer case 612 is with a mounting plate 612d provided, which is held in a position which is from the approximately cylindrical outer surface 612k of the outer casing 612 through a plate-like holder 612j is spaced, which has reinforcing ribs and from the outer surface 612k of the outer casing 612 extends from. The mounting plate 612d has mounting holes that allow the outer case 612 on a structure such. B. a base part or a lid of any device or object can be mounted.

The inner case 614 is roughly tubular and is preferably sized so that it fits snugly into the outer housing 612 fits. The inner case 614 has an open end 614c for access to the inside 614f of the inner case 614 to grant. A hole 614b is in an end portion of the inner case 614 arranged the open end 614c of the inner case 614 is opposite. The hole 614b is eccentric, ie the bore 614b is relative to the central longitudinal axis of the interior 614f of the inner case 614 eccentrically offset. The inner case 614 still has an outer surface 614a on.

An end section or an end face 636 of the inner case 614 leading to the open end 614c opposite, is outside the outer sleeve 612 and near the opening 612b . A hole 638 extends through the end portion 636 and communicates with the inside 614f of the inner case 614 . The hole 638 is with the hole 630 aligned appropriately or in register.

The torsion spring 616 has a first axially extending portion at one end 616a and at the other end a second axially extending portion 616b . The axially extending section 616a stands with the hole 614b engaged one end of the torsion spring with the inner housing 614 to connect, and the axially extending portion or projection 616b stands with the hole 632 engaged to the other end of the torsion spring 616 with the outer sleeve 612 to connect when the hinge module 610 is assembled. The twists of the torsion spring 116 are at least partially inside 614f of the inner case 614 recorded and in the example shown, the windings or windings in the interior of the outer housing 612 added. An eccentric lead 614d stands in the axial direction from the outer end 636 of the inner case 616 in front. The lead 614d is located at a location away from the hole 638 is spaced, and extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the inner housing 614 .

The hinge module 610 includes a pole 620 through the holes 638 through and out from the inner housing 614 and the outer case 612 on each side of the hinge module 610 extends out. The hinge module 610 also has a bracket 640 on the one attachment section 642 and arms 644 and 646 that are spaced parallel to each other. The poor 644 , 646 are at one end with the mounting section 642 connected. The end of each of the arms 644 , 646 which of the Fastening section 642 is a sleeve 648 respectively. 650 Mistake. Each of the arms 644 , 646 has an arcuate curved section and a straight section. The straight section of each arm 644 , 646 extends from a corresponding sleeve 648 , 650 to one end of the curved section of the corresponding arm 644 , 646 . The curved section of each arm 644 , 646 extends from the rectilinear portion of the corresponding arm 644 , 646 to the attachment section 642 the bracket or the bracket 640 . The rod 620 extends through the sleeves 648 , 650 at each of its ends around the bracket or clip 640 relative to the inner case 614 and the outer case 612 to be pivoted.

The coat hanger 640 and the inner case 614 rotate together as a unit when the lead 614d in contact with the arm 644 of the bracket 640 stands and the torsion spring 616 is under load or preloaded. In the example shown is the torsion spring 616 under load when wound up relative to its relaxed state. In the example shown there is a limited rotational movement of the bracket 640 relative to the inner case 614 possible if the torsion spring 616 is released and the arm 644 yourself from the lead 614d or in the direction of the projection 614d moved until the arm 644 with the lead 614d comes into contact.

The inner case 614 is between a first position and a second position relative to the outer housing 612 rotatable. If the module 610 is not installed in a device or device, the inner housing 614 move beyond the first position relative to the outer housing in an excessively rotated position in which the torsion spring 616 is in a relaxed state. To the inner case 614 from the over-rotated position to the first position with respect to the outer case 612 to move is the torsion spring 616 wound up or tightened and thereby the torsion spring 616 biased. To the inner case 614 from the first position to the second position relative to the housing 612 to move is the torsion spring 616 wound or tightened even further, which is between the inner housing and the outer housing by the torsion spring 616 applied force increased even further. The torsion spring 616 therefore stretches the inner housing 614 towards the first position when the inner case 614 is between the first position and the second position, and the torsion spring 616 tensions the inner case 614 toward the over-rotated position when the inner housing is between the first position and the over-rotated position. A fat becomes between the inner surface 612a of the outer casing 612 and the outer surface 614a of the inner case 614 provided to the rotational movement of the inner housing 614 relative to the outer casing 612 to dampen.

The hinge module 610 also includes a seal 624 , preferably in the form of an elastomeric O-ring 624 that in the groove 652 of the inner case 614 is arranged to provide a sealing engagement between the outer surface 614a of the inner case 614 and the inner surface 612a of the outer casing 612 to be provided when the hinge module 610 is assembled to hold the grease between the outer surface 614 of the housing 614 and the inner surface 612a of the outer casing 612 to support. It should also include that seal 624 a certain amount of rotation damping for the assembled hinge module 610 provides.

As an example of using the hinge module 610 is the hinge module 610 mounted on the base part or door frame of a device or device, in the fastening means (not shown) through the mounting holes in the fastening plate 612d arranged to the outer casing 612 and accordingly the module 610 to be securely mounted on the base part. Before this step, the bracket or bracket 640 rotated relative to the outer housing to the spring 616 preload and the inner casing 614 from the over-rotated position to the first position relative to the outer housing 612 to move which corresponds to the open position of the lid. The fastening section of the bracket 640 is attached to the lid with the lid in the open position so that when the lid is moved to the closed position the spring 616 is wound or tightened even more tightly to store energy. This provides a hinge connection between the lid and the base part. Because of the spring preload 616 the lid is held in the open position at least with a certain force. The cover then has to be against the spring tension caused by the torsion spring 616 is provided, are moved to the closed position, and thus stores energy in the torsion spring. The lid could be held in the closed position by a separate lock (not shown). When the lock is opened, the lid moves automatically under the pre-tension of the torsion spring 616 in the open position, but in a controlled and gentle manner due to the damping effect of the damping grease, which is between the outer surface of the inner housing 614 and the inner surface of the outer case 612 is provided. The second position of the inner housing 614 relative to the outer casing 612 corresponds to the closed position of the lid.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that changes may be made in the above-described embodiments without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is therefore understood that the invention is not limited to the specifically disclosed embodiments, but is intended to cover modifications within the inventive concept and scope of the present invention.

Reference symbol list

10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610

Hinge module

12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 612

outer housing / first part

12a, 112a, 212a, 612a

Inner surface

12b, 112b, 212b

open end

12d, 112d, 212d

Engagement surface

12e

drilling

13, 213

slot

13a

first section

13b

second part

14, 114, 214, 614

inner housing / second part

14a, 114a, 214a, 314a, 414a

Outside surface

14b

slot

14c, 114c, 214c, 614c

open end

14d

Engagement surface

14e

protruding rib

16, 116, 216, 316, 416, 616

Torsion spring / spring

16a, 116a

first end

16b, 116b

second end

112c

slot

112e, 212e

drilling

112f

outer end

112g

opening

114b

channel

114d

Engaging surface

114f,

outer end

114g

opening

116c

section

118

Compression spring

120, 320

first pen

120a

inner end

120b

outer end

122

second pen

122a

inner end

122b

outer end

124, 624

Seal / elastomeric O-ring

211

slot

212d

flange

212h

Floor of the interior

214b, 614b

drilling

214d

axial projection

214f

Longitudinal central axis of the interior

215

Locking leg

216a

first lead

216d

first end

216e

second end

217

Locking leg

226

axial projection

228

axial projection

230

outer end

232, 332, 432

Engaging surface / slot

311

section

312a

Inner surface

312b, 412b, 612b

opening

312d, 412d

poor

312h, 412h, 612h

wall

312i, 412i

inner space

312k, 412k

Inner surface

313, 413

section

314, 414

outer wave

314b

poor

314d, 414d

poor

316a, 416a, 616a

section

316b, 416b, 616b

section

320

Shaft / shaft

322, 422

Compression spring / compression spring

330, 430

central hole / opening

334,434

opening

336, 436

Sleeve section

338, 438

Shaft section

340, 440

slot

342,442

disc

411

Torsion spring section

413

Sleeve section

420

second pin / shaft / shaft

434

opening

511

Spacer bushing

612d

Mounting plate

612j

bracket

612k

Outer area

614a

outer surface

614d

eccentric lead

614f

Interior

620

pole

632

drilling

636

End section / outer end

638

drilling

640

Bracket or clamp

642

Fastening section

644

poor

646

poor

648

Sleeve

650

Sleeve

652

Groove

Claims (5)

Hinge module, comprising: a first part (12), a second part (14) which is rotatable relative to the first part (12) between a first position and a second position, the second part (14) at least partially inside of the first part (12) is received, and a torsion spring (16) which is arranged inside the first part (12) and biases the second part (14) relative to the first part (12) towards the first position, wherein the spring (16) is biased when the second part (14) is in the first position relative to the first part (12), the first part (12) forming an outer housing having an interior and an interior surface , the second part (14) forming an inner housing having an interior and an outer surface, the inner housing being at least partially received in the interior of the outer housing, the outer surface of the inner housing at least a portion t is opposite the inner surface of the outer housing and the torsion spring (16) is at least partially housed inside the inner housing, characterized in that the inner housing has an outer end portion that is outside the outer housing, the outer end portion of the inner housing has a hole or bore, the outer housing having an end portion facing away from the outer end portion of the inner housing, the end portion of the outer housing having a hole or bore which mates with the bore of the outer end portion (636 ) of the inner housing, the hinge module further comprising: a pair of pins (120, 122; 320, 420) arranged to extend through the bore of the end portion of the outer casing and through the bore of the outer end portion of the inner casing, respectively, and a compression spring (118; 322, 422) interposed between the pair of Pins (120,122; 320, 420) are arranged to bias each of the pins of this pair outward from the corresponding bore of the end portion of the outer housing and the bore of the outer end portion of the inner housing. Hinge module after Claim 1 , wherein the outer housing has a circumferential groove and the inner housing has a radial projection which is arranged in the groove, thereby to limit the amount of relative rotation between the inner housing and the outer housing. Hinge module after Claim 2 wherein the outer housing has an axial groove in communication with the circumferential groove and the inner housing is able to move axially relative to the outer housing against an axial preload provided by the torsion spring, when the radial projection is aligned with the axial groove. Hinge module after Claim 1 wherein the outer housing has a pair of arcuate slots and the inner housing has a pair of snap legs which engage the pair of arcuate slots to limit the amount of relative rotation between the inner housing and the outer housing. Hinge module after Claim 1 wherein the first part is an outer housing, the second part has a shaft portion that extends through the outer housing, the torsion spring has bonds that encompass the shaft portion, the torsion spring has a radial projection that engages with the shaft portion, and the torsion spring has an axial projection that engages the outer housing.

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